Hello, I'm originally from Cleveland and Rent is about $2,121/month for a decent place. Average temperature is around 52--F, so expect cold winters. Median household income is $156,908, which feels pretty solid for the area. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The city has invested a lot in new development. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. The suburbs are where most families end up. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The suburbs are where most families end up.
3 upvotes
13 Replies
Brooklyn Wood
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a contractor who relocated here from Dallas about 8 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and work.
Pros I've experienced:
- Cost of living is very reasonable
- Lots of new development happening
- Good airport with direct flights
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Homeless population growing downtown
Financially, we've found it pretty good compared to where we came from. The market is competitive but not impossible. Groceries are growing, gas is surprisingly good.
Socially, I have mixed feelings honestly. Hope this helps!.
40 upvotes
Jackson R.
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value job market, you'll love it. The job market is genuinely underrated and I've found I love the pace of life here. My neighborhood (Sunset) is affordable and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Salt Lake City, be prepared for the culture shock. housing market is completely different here. And Property taxes are high.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
30 upvotes
Michael
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Maple Ridge for 15 years. Moved from Portland for quality of life. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is better than expected. We bought in 2022 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals.
**Employment:**
retail is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is excellent - we have mountains within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Maple Ridge schools are pretty good. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Property taxes are high. Limited entertainment options. And cost of living can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 8/10. Happy to answer more specific questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
29 upvotes
Brooks Richardson
hard disagree but ok
29 upvotes
Lillian Gomez
I've lived in Uptown for about 4 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
I love the pace of life here. When I first moved here from Nashville, I was surprised by food scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Great outdoor activities nearby
- Good internet infrastructure
- The cost of living scene is tough
The downsides:
- Summers can be brutally hot
- Limited high-paying job options
Overall I'd rate it 7/10 for families. Happy to answer more specific questions..
28 upvotes
dc_skylar
underrated comment
27 upvotes
Kinsley Torres
Saving this thread
21 upvotes
Luna Ramirez
We moved here with our family and it was the best decision I ever made. Schools in Old Town area are surprisingly good. Kids love it here.
17 upvotes
Kinsley Thompson
Bought a house here in 2016 and it's not perfect but it works for me. Property values have gone down slightly since then.
13 upvotes
seattlevibes2020
We moved here with our family and it's not perfect but it works for me. Schools in Meadowbrook area are average. Kids love it here.
12 upvotes
Hazel
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Maple Ridge for 6 years. Moved from San Diego for a fresh start. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is solid. We bought in 2018 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
manufacturing is strong here. hospitality is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are growing for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
I genuinely enjoy living here. The outdoor scene is hit or miss - we have biking trails within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Maple Ridge schools are average. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Not very walkable outside downtown. Property taxes are high. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 6/10. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
11 upvotes
Eva Wright
I've lived in Old Town for about 13 years now, so I can give you a pretty detailed perspective.
it's not perfect but it works for me. When I first moved here from Dallas, I was surprised by cultural scene. It took some adjustment but now I wouldn't trade it.
A few things worth knowing:
- Low crime in most neighborhoods
- Decent public transit for the size
- The healthcare scene is solid
The downsides:
- Dating scene is rough
- Homeless population growing downtown
Overall I'd rate it 6/10 for retirees. Happy to answer more specific questions..
All Countries
